This is it. Christmas is just around the corner now. Do you feel the Christmas atmosphere? Have you put up a tree? Or are you waiting for December 8. Are you ready for hot chocolate, skating rinks and markets in town We have selected a few out for a perfect out-of-town Christmas edition trip. Take a look at the most beautiful Christmas markets in Lombardy, but not only. Even a few hints in Piedmont, which is not so far away. And a tip even a little further afield to stimulate your imagination….
This year among the thousands of colorful lights,Christmas songs or typical sweets of this period, you can spend a different day than usual. Find out where they are located.
Table Of Contents
- "Oh bej! Oh bej!" fair.
- The markets in the Duomo in Milan
- The markets of Como
- The Village of Wonders in Milan
- Christmas in Lecco
- Bolzano markets
- Markets of Cernobbio
- Markets in Cremona
- Livigno Christmas markets
- Markets of Bormio
- Christmas market at Ricetto di Candelo.
- Asti Christmas Market
- Europe's largest indoor market
- The largest market in Europe
“Oh bej! Oh bej!” fair.
Obviously dutiful to report, among the Christmas markets in Lombardy, the historic fair of “Oh Bej! Oh Bej!” in Milan from December 5, the feast of the patron saint. A whole series of stalls that develop around the Castello Sforzesco and inside Parco Sempione. Until December 8 you can make little gifts, nibble sweet treats and spend enchanting moments at one of the oldest events in Milan. Think of it as dating back to around the late 1500s.
At that time Giannetto Castiglione, a nobleman and the first Grand Master of the Order of Saints Maurice and Lazarus, was sent to Milan by Pope Pius IV with parcels filled with sweets and gifts to be distributed to the people to rekindle faith and strengthen ties with the Church. It was from that very occasion that the market would take its current name: “Oh Bej! Oh Bej!” representing the exclamation in Milanese dialect of “Oh belli! Oh belli!” the festive cry with which, according to tradition, the children welcomed the gifts brought by Giannetto Castiglione.
The markets in the Duomo in Milan
Still staying in Milan, the markets in Piazza Duomo cannot go unmentioned. The largest in the city. Over 60 chalets right next to the great Cathedral. Open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Find handicrafts, a wide range of gastronomic products and much more to browse through. Perfect for a stroll in the evening. Perhaps with a chocolate in your hands, mulled wine or roasted chestnuts to warm you up as you walk.
The markets of Como
Beautiful Como could not miss from the list. Until January 6, this delightful lakeside resort among the most exclusive in the world is dressed in lights and welcomes you into a world of enchantment, magic and many activities. The little houses of the market, the illuminated and decorated Christmas tree, the ice rink, the merry-go-round of horses, the illuminations in all the streets that will make Como a town of a Thousand and One Nights. Full program here.
The Village of Wonders in Milan
Opened on Nov. 15, it will run until Jan. 6. Ice rink, rides, shows, elves and sweet treats await you at Indro montanelli park in Porta Venezia, not quite a Christmas market but a historic holiday-related event that has been enchanting Milan for a long time.
Christmas in Lecco
Lecco Magico Natale is the wraparound event taking place in Lecco under the holidays until January 6. Lots of activities, including concerts, illuminations, projections and more. The play of lights in the city streets, active until Jan. 6 are something truly spatial. The markets then welcome visitors of all ages, offering an itinerary that celebrates local crafts, typical products and Christmas traditions. Strolling among the stalls you can find gift ideas, decorations, sweets and local specialties, all surrounded by a warm and welcoming atmosphere overlooking Lake Como. Unmissable for this alone. Plus, the elf village with Santa, the skating rink and many surprises that you can find on the program here
Bolzano markets
It may not be Lombardy, but can we not talk about the Bolzano markets. The oldest in Italy and the ones that started the tradition of markets. Large, historic and with the authentic Christmas atmosphere that only Trentino can convey, they are well worth a visit.
Markets of Cernobbio
The “City of Toys” was the local December event, which has always been the Christmas event that enlivens the Lake Como area, with markets, lights, skating rink and various initiatives, having the center of Como as its beating heart. In recent years, Cernobbio has created its own tradition spread throughout the country. Thus creating one big luminous constellation that unites the center and hamlets: from the lakefront to the village, from Strettoia to Piazza S. Stefano, from Rovenna to Mornello to Villa Bernasconi. Reason why it is noteworthy among the Christmas markets in Lombardy. December 6 through January 6. Program here
Markets in Cremona
The square in Cremona is filled with lovely wooden chalets with various exhibitors inside ready to offer the best: among gift ideas, handcrafted decorations, cribs, wreaths and typical Italian quality products, a day immersed in the scents and magic of Christmas awaits you. There is the possibility of skating in the center of the square on the large real ice rink .
There will also be no shortage of the original little train on wheels, which will travel a fantastic tourist route. Through Dec. 26. Plus workshops, children’s rides and cotton candy. More info here.
Livigno Christmas markets
Among the Christmas markets, very renowned are those in Livigno, at high altitude. We are at 1800 meters. These markets are really atmospheric. They deserve a tour to feel like in Santa Claus Country and discover the true magic of Christmas. The central street of the town comes alive with crafts, typical products and the magical atmosphere of the Alps. Through Jan. 6.
Markets of Bormio
Surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery, Bormio is a treat not to be missed. The traditional Christmas Markets organized by the Pro Loco are back here again this year. They are held on weekends and continue until Epiphany, with stalls selling local crafts and typical products.
Christmas market at Ricetto di Candelo.
We move to Piedmont. One of the most beautiful medieval villages is transformed into a Santa Claus village. You will find Santa Claus’ House with a post office where little ones can deliver their letters. Workshops and many shows are planned.
The Ricetto of Candelo will also host a Christmas market in its characteristic narrow streets with handicrafts, gift ideas, home decorations and typical local specialties. Admission tickets can be purchased on the event website. Dates: just a little longer: Dec. 6-7-8-13-14
Asti Christmas Market
In the wonderful territory of Langhe, Roero and Monferrato you can experience a unique Christmas magic. Asti, Govone and San Damiano d’Asti: three towns united in the magic of Christmas.
More than 130 Christmas “huts” will be set up an hour and a half from Milan. You will be able to find handcrafted products from local businesses and the exquisite food and wine offerings of the area. The Asti Christmas market will remain until December 21. If Asti hosts the stalls, Govone is more focused on entertainment with Santa’s house, Elves and whatnot while San Damiano d’Asti presents the charming living nativity scene. Find all the useful info here.
Europe’s largest indoor market
Bonus Christmas Market. Zurich. Europe’s largest covered one. Something truly magical. True, Zurich is a bit far away but by organizing yourself it can be done! The king of markets we can say! Then it is up to you to decide if you will go there.
The largest market in Europe
With this we move right out of Italy. We are in Craiova in Romania. we put it to you because it is something amazing. The largest and the most scenic in Europe. Imagine, over 280,000 square meters of markets spread around the city . Ice skating rink, twinkling trees emagia everywhere. A little Christmas jaunt is well worth it. It lasts until Jan. 4.